NEC MultiSync LCD1700M+

Flat-panel monitor

Flat-panel prices have been in freefall for the past few months. Where once such a sleek, slim screen would only grace the desks of corporate financiers and rich consumers, 15in models are now cheap enough to enter the mass market. But what of the larger flat-panel monitors, which used to cost £1,000 plus? These are also benefitting from falling costs, and this month we have a sub-£700 17in model from monitor giant NEC-Mitsubishi.

Cutting the price often means cutting corners, but NEC-Mitsubishi has kept the compromises to a minimum. You won't get such advanced features as digital interfaces or pivot functionality, and the maximum resolution of 1,280x1,024 may seem a waste of the 17in viewing area.

On the other hand, you do get a flat-panel with a surprisingly robust case, while the sturdy tilt-and-swivel stand allows you to capture the perfect viewing angle. The 160-degree viewing angle is extremely good, and the 350:1 contrast ratio helps the definition.

The text definition doesn't match the clarity of the best 15in flat-panels - the pixel pitch of 0.264mm may sound impressive for a 15in model, but is average for a screen this size.

The versatile colour scheme, however, is one of the most realistic and attractive in the flat-panel market.

We commended the 16in Eizo last month but, at a price that only four months ago would have bought you a fairly average 15in model, the 17in MultiSync is an extremely high-quality screen. For graphics, this screen is outstanding; if image reproduction and a vast workspace are important, this is the first flat-panel that genuinely should replace your oversized CRT. ®